Flu and Breastfeeding

[thedenverduo]

Hoping this is the right forum for my question...

So ds (2 months) and I have the flu (H1N1 if it matters). We both just got sick about 48 hours ago, but I am considered about my milk supply. Ds normally nurses on one side for 10-15 minutes, drains it, and every once in a while wants to nurse a couple minutes on the other side.

Well, starting today he has wanted to nurse on both sides for 15-20 minutes a side! I don't mind nursing him this much, it is just all of a sudden and so it has me a little concerned. I am pretty ill, on the couch all day with a fever. Can the flu/being very sick diminish my milk supply? If so, what can I do about it until I am well?

I know he is feeling terrible, maybe he is just comfort nursing? He hasn't been a comfort nurser. Since day 1 he was very focused on the task at hand. Even when he has been tired/hurt/fussy he never really wants to nurse unless he is hungry.

I am hoping for some words of wisdom from you ladies to get me through the weekend. I can contact my ped's lc on Monday if all else fails. TIA!

[Rico'sAlice]

When DS had the flu in August he nursed way more than normal (he's two, but I think it would be even more true for an infant) I was not ill myself so I know it wasn't a supply thing.
Just keep your water bottle by your side constantly!

Also, I'm assuming you're not taking any decongestants or anything? Certain types can diminish milk supply.

[Honey693]

I'd assume he's comfort nursing. When DD is teething she nurses a lot more than normal. I'm assuming it's b/c she feels so crummy and the boob makes everything better .

[PatioGardener]

Stay hydrated, Mama. If you forget to drink because you don't feel well your supply can dip. Otherwise I'd watch baby's pees to make sure he's getting enough milk and nurse nurse nurse.

[thedenverduo]

Thanks for the responses! I haven't taken anything medication wise... so I know it isn't that. I think you ladies are right- he's just comfort nursing, which is great. He is taking this whole flu thing like a champ and it is nice to just lay in bed with him and nurse all day. Thanks for the reminders to stay hydrated. I always feel like I am drinking enough, but between having a fever and nursing all the time I probably am a little dehydrated.

I pumped last night, just in case I end up having to go in dh or whoever will have a good stock of bm on hand, and I got 4 ounces just on one side. So that was really encouraging!

Thanks again!

[natural4mybabies]

We all had the flu about a month ago. I was the only one who spent an entire day of the week long sickness with vomiting and diarrhea, so I was pretty dehydrated. I found it difficult to nurse during this time (constantly running to the bathroom) so DS got s few more bottles than he would normally. When the vomitting stopped, I felt full, but when I pumped, I was less than 50% of my normal output.

As soon as I was able to chug water and gatorade and get some calories in me, my supply went back up. I spent the next few days fighting fever, nausea, congestion and body aches but made a point to nurse more for DS and the supply. Took about a week before my supply was fully stocked again.